In logistics, as in telecomms, the last mile is key, says Burke of Hytech Logistics and DOPsys

In Hytech Logistics we have been serving clients with specialist technical distribution services since 2000. We specialise in added value services where the items shipped are high tech and the transport involves more than simple drop-off at the point of delivery. Usually that means at least placing equipment where it will operate, removing all packaging and preparing it for whatever commissioning or calibration is then required. Sometimes powering up and testing is all that is required, sometimes we are joined by a specialist technician from the vendor.

When we set up Hytech Logistics it was with a vision of creating a world class technical distribution service provider we were very conscious of that last mile issue. I had been personally involved since the 80s as operations manager for the leading distributor of high value scientific and technical apparatus. I experienced the pain points and tried hard to find ways of making things better, of working out ways of learning from experience and applying the lessons to the methods.

 

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In Hytech this need became even more apparent, in particular the lack of a consistent standard for global brands and any recognised training programmes. As a provider of last mile logistics outside Ireland, we have a responsibility not just to our local clients but also to their global branded products and an obligation to deliver the last mile consistently to a high standard across the globe. The objective is seamless delivery to point of use with consistent quality of service. High value products mandate high quality of service and as in all sectors that will depend on standards and proven methodology.

All of this led to the development of DOPsys, a consistent and standardised methodology for last mile logistics and its launch last year. Standing for Deliver, Offload and Position System, this is now a package that includes the system itself, management templates and software, complemented by training and accreditation for technicians, team leaders and project managers. We have launched in the UK and Ireland with accreditation from the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport.

“Every element of that critical last mile is covered by DOPsys. It is comprehensive, from site surveys and planning to manual and machine handling, health and safety procedures, and even appropriate insurance to overall project management for more complex contracts”

Every element of that critical last mile is covered by DOPsys, which serves both as a methodology for standardised management of the process and as a service quality control system. It is comprehensive, from site surveys and planning to manual and machine handling, health and safety procedures, and even appropriate insurance to overall project management for more complex contracts.

Special requirements of the vendor, customer or the equipment itself will also be taken in together with the essential collaboration with their technical staff as needed. That is often essential when equipment has to be tested and calibrated on-site before becoming operational. Medical and laboratory equipment installation is a common example.

Some specialised sub-sets of DOPsys have already emerged to cater for specific sectors, notably Adqual for Printers, Adqual for Servers and one for Automated Teller Machines (ATM) is in development. The concept is straightforward: an overall set of principles and methodology that is standardised and consistent for the logistics and supply chain. It can and will develop over time and with experience.

DOPsys is a unique combination of the essentials in taking complete care of that last mile and ensuring its successful implementation—processes, technology and people. It reassures the customer because it is an interactive service delivery with real people and their responsibilities fully clarified. It is essential for the vendor or distributor, because in the case of specialised high tech equipment it quite literally is of no value—probably cannot even be invoiced—until it is delivered and tested. Damage or mistakes at that stage are also entirely a cost to the seller. DOPsys offers a win/win/win solution.

Stuart Burke is managing director of Hytech Logistics